Southern Illinois University Edwardsville: Be Part of Something Bigger

When I arrived at Southern Illinois University Edwardsville, I was only sure of one thing: I wanted to be part of something bigger than myself.

My fascination with filmmaking, newswriting and photography brought me to the Department of Mass Communications, where I received hands- on instruction on a variety of technical aspects in the media industry. I learned how to properly handle audio, video and lighting equipment, produce scripts for news reels and radio shows, conduct interviews, write news stories, and even type out detailed HTML code— the list goes on. My professors also instilled in me a firm understanding of media history and theory.

As I completed each project, I realized I was becoming more marketable. I was quickly offered an internship with a local news organization, and after it concluded, I was asked to stay on as a staff writer and photographer. I had a plan in place for a full- time job before I walked across the stage at graduation.

Thanks to the comprehensive programming and helpful faculty and staff at SIUE, I gained the skills and theoretical knowledge to succeed in a competitive news market. Two years and 750 news articles later, I finally know what it’s like to be part of something bigger than myself, thanks to my time at SIUE.